Creating Your Medical “Mom” Team

Interview with Dr. Aries Kuo, Kaua‘i Medical Clinic Līhuʻe

and Kapaʻa

When you’re expecting, you may have created your “mom” team— friends and family who will help you celebrate the joys and navigate the challenges of parenthood.

What about your medical “mom” team? Selecting who will be with you before, during and after birth is a big decision.

“Having a baby is a wonderful experience, but it does often take a physical and mental toll,” says Dr. Aries Kuo, an OB-GYN at Kaua‘i Medical Clinic. “A team of supportive doctors, nurses and experts can make all the difference.”

It can start with an OB-GYN, who will make sure mom is in her best health, even after birth. Monthly pregnancy appointments will check everything from the baby’s heartrate to signs of gestational diabetes, which can increase the risk of early birth or difficult deliveries. OB-GYNs also offer help for general aches.

“We’re part of Wilcox Health, so if expectant moms develop carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica or ligament pain, we can refer them to physical therapists to learn ways to ease discomfort,” Dr. Kuo says.

Wilcox dieticians are available for healthy eating tips, while birth educators and lactation consultants prep parents for life after delivery.

As the big day approaches, OB-GYNs will work with parents on a plan that best fits them. This could involve minimal intervention, where wireless monitor technology allows moms to walk around while medical teams continue to observe the baby’s vital signs. Problems can develop suddenly, even after seemingly normal pregnancies. Then, every second counts. Wilcox’s board-certified doctors, nurses and specialists are specially trained to immediately respond to any emergency, so that every birth can be a true celebration.

“Being with patients through pregnancy and delivery is such a happy thing,” Dr. Kuo says. “Iʻm honored to be part of it.

For more information, go to WilcoxHealth.org/Maternity

• Child & Family Service (CFS) is hiring for part-time and full-time positions with the Early Head Start & Head Start programs on Kaua`i and O`ahu.

• Positions are open for all educational levels from high school diploma to Bachelor’s degrees including infant and toddler caregivers, family advocates, home visitors, and program directors.

• Benefits include paid opportunities for advancements such as certifications, 401K, paid holidays, and medical insurance including dental and vision options.

• Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families here in Hawai`i? Apply today!

Easy Peanut Butter “Pupsicles”

FROZEN DOG TREATS just 4 ingredients

Ingredients

25 ounces organic plain yogurt

½ medium banana

2 tablespoons organic peanut butter

12 organic pretzel sticks

Instructions

1. Add the yogurt, banana and peanut butter to a blender or food processor and puree until mixture is smooth and creamy.

2. Spoon mixture into an ice-cube tray, filling each compartment to the brim. Insert one pretzel stick into the center of each compartment. Mixture should be thick enough to hold each pretzel stick upright.

3. Place ice-cube tray in freezer until treats are completely frozen, about 1-2 hours.